Classmates,
It is with heavy hearts we announce our loss of Mike Amicarella (18th CO). Mike passed away unexpectedly at his home in Fort Collins, Colorado, on October 20, 2025.
Here is part of Mike’s obituary:
“Born on May 5, 1955, in Littlefield, Texas, Mike spent his childhood in Steamboat Springs and Estes Park, Colorado, with his parents, Carmen and Lawrence “Mic” Amicarella. An avid outdoorsman from a young age, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and participating in Boy Scouts. A dedicated student, Mike graduated from the prestigious United States Naval Academy in 1978 and earned his naval flight wings a year later from NAS Pensacola. He served with distinction for 20 years as a Naval helicopter pilot, flying the Sikorsky SH-3 Sea King and transitioned to the SH-60 Seahawk. His passion for special missions led him to orders at the Naval Strike Warfare Center in Fallon, Nevada, which was the highlight of his Naval career. Along the way he earned the distinguished call sign, “Animal.” He retired as a Commander in 1997.
After his military service, Mike embarked on a second career with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, serving as a Regional Aviation Manager and Helicopter Inspector Pilot. For over two decades, he ensured the safety, effectiveness and efficiency of wildland fire and aviation operations that supported the Bureau’s mission to serve Native communities and state and federal lands. He mentored countless firefighters and pilots, earning widespread respect for his expertise, dedication, and commitment to aviation safety.”
A celebration of Mike’s life will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2025, from 1–4 p.m. at The Covey (2661 West County Road 64) in North Fort Collins. His family asks guests to honor Mike’s deep appreciation for the cowboy way of life by wearing their best western attire. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to American Legion Post 176, the Combat Recovery Foundation, Freedom Hunters, or the Wildland Firefighter Foundation.
If you would like to share a memory of Mike with his family, please use the link below:
(John “Mike” Amicarella Obituary – Visitation & Funeral Information)
Please keep Mike’s family in your thoughts and prayers.
Fair winds…
Glen
Glen Woods
President, USNA Class of 1978